Bill > HB887

This bill establishes prevailing wage protections for human services providers working under state or county contracts, addressing a perceived gender-based wage disparity in which traditionally male-dominated occupations receive prevailing wage protections while predominantly female human services roles do not. The legislation creates a comprehensive framework requiring contractors to pay human services providers (such as social workers, case workers, and investigators) wages that reflect the prevailing rates in their field, including both basic hourly rates and fringe benefits like health insurance, vacation, and pension benefits. Contractors must submit weekly payroll records, pay workers at least the prevailing wage (which will be determined by the director of labor and industrial relations), and provide overtime compensation at 1.5 times the basic rate for work over eight hours per day or on weekends and holidays. The bill includes robust enforcement mechanisms, with potential penalties ranging from $250 to $10,000 per violation, and allows for suspension of contractors who repeatedly violate the wage requirements. The law will apply to contracts over $2,000 and covers a wide range of human services providers working to support vulnerable populations like children, elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those exiting the criminal justice system. The primary goal is to promote economic equity and stability for these workers while maintaining the quality and continuity of critical social services.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=887&year=2026